JBS Tolleson Salmonella Outbreak Sickens 246 in 25 States

JBS Tolleson, Inc. recalled 5.1 million pounds of raw beef products linked to a recent Salmonella outbreak. An epidemiological investigation confirmed 246 people from over 25 states. There were 117 hospitalizations from the outbreak from illnesses dating from August 5, 2018 to October 16, 2018.

Thankfully, this JBS Salmonella outbreak appears to be over, but this is what you need to know to stay safe.

The contaminated beef was packaged on July 26, 2018 to September 7, 2018

JBS Tolleson, Inc. packaged the contaminated ground beef

The contaminated ground beef was distributed under various brand names to retailers nationwide

You should check your freezer to make sure none of the beef is from that period of time and company.

Although salmonellosis is typically not a life-threatening illness, Salmonellosis can cause dangerous complications in “infants and young children, older adults, transplant recipients, pregnant women, and people with weakened immune systems” (Mayo Clinic).

To Reduce Risk of Consuming Contaminated Foods:

You need to safely prepare raw meat products (fresh or frozen) to protect yourself from foodborne pathogens. Make sure:

Ground beef is cooked to a temperature of 160°F

All other cuts of beef to at least 145 °F and allowing the meat to rest for at least 3 minutes

Properly clean surfaces and utensils before and after food preparation to prevent cross-contamination

Do not consume undercooked meat

Avoid eating foods that were not properly handled (left out at room temperature for over two hours, not refrigerated properly, not sufficiently heated, etc.)

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